Methodist conference rejects same-sex marriage

(AP) Delegates to a crucial conference of The United Methodist Church, America's second-largest Protestant denomination, have rejected a move to ease the faith's ban on same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBT clergy.

Some supporters of greater LGBT inclusion were in tears, while others vented their anger after delegates, on a 449-374 vote, defeated a proposal that would have let regional and local church bodies decide for themselves on gay-friendly policies.

The three day conference was held in St. Louis.